Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a common bacterial infection of the skin and the tissue just beneath it, causing redness, warmth, and swelling. It usually responds well to antibiotics but can spread or become serious if untreated.

• Red, warm, swollen area of skin, often with poorly defined edges
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Fever and feeling generally unwell, particularly with more extensive infection
• The affected area may feel tight or stretched
• Red streaking extending from the area, or swollen nearby lymph nodes, can occur with spreading infection

• Caused by bacteria, most commonly Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species, entering through a break in the skin such as a cut, insect bite, or area of dry, cracked skin (including between the toes).
• Risk is increased by skin conditions that break the skin barrier, poor circulation, diabetes, obesity, and a weakened immune system.

• Diagnosed clinically based on the characteristic spreading redness, warmth, and swelling, often with a fever.
• Blood tests or wound cultures are occasionally used in more severe cases or when there is a poor response to initial treatment.

Cellulitis is treated with an oral antibiotic, chosen to cover the most likely bacteria, typically for about 5–10 days, with most people showing improvement within a few days.

Elevating the affected limb and resting it can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

More extensive cellulitis, infection near the eyes, rapidly spreading infection, or infection with signs of sepsis requires hospital admission for intravenous antibiotics.

Marking the edge of the redness with a pen can help track whether the infection is responding to treatment or continuing to spread, prompting review if it worsens.

• Keep skin clean and moisturised to prevent cracking, particularly on the feet.
• Clean and cover cuts, scrapes, and other wounds promptly.
• Manage underlying conditions such as diabetes and poor circulation well.
• Seek prompt medical care for any area of skin that is becoming increasingly red, warm, and painful.